Scotland’s oil and gas industry strengths

Oil and gas energy are the cornerstones of the Scottish energy sector. The industry has had a major impact on Scotland since oil was first discovered in UK waters more than 40 years ago.

Since then Scotland has developed a multi billion pound oil and gas industry with a proud history of expertise and technological innovation.

The challenging North Sea means Scotland’s energy worker have extensive experience of operation in a hostil environment.

Today over 2000 companies operate the Scottish oil and gas supply chain with Scottish companies active in more than 40 countries and exporting to over 80 countries.

Scotland’s oil and gas skills and expertise

Employing over 150,000 people oil and gas is a major Scottish employer with particular strengths in:

  • Subsea engineering – technology now deployed around the world was borne out of necessity in North Sea waters
  • Drilling, downhole and well technology – the Scottish industry has taken this technology to new levels
  • Production and process management – world-class expertise in producing industry resources
  • Education and training – a superb training and research network has developed to support and progress the industry

With over 150,000 people employed in the oil and gas industry, Scotland can offer your company a skilled and experienced workforce with a proven trackrecord of innovation.

Supporting Scotland’s oil and gas sector

Allied to Scotland’s skills and expertise, the industry can also call upon a supportive environment and strong infrastructure. Organisations representing the oil and gas sector include:

  • Oil & Gas UK - representative organisation for the UK offshore oil and gas industry
  • OPITO – industry funded, employer led oil and gas academy, OPITO is a UK initiative used by 25 countries worldwide
  • Decom North Sea – industry forum aimed at ensuring Scotland has required skills to to carry out offshore decomminssioning
  • Offshore Contractor’s Association - represents companies involved in construction, modifications and maintenance work, design and project engineering
  • Subsea UK – provides organisation, funding and support to tackle skills shortages in subsea industry
  • FPAL – UK’s oil and gas supply chain database
  • Pipeline Industries Guild – world-wide association catering directly for the needs of the pipeline industry

We are committed to providing the oil and gas industry with support and advice and helping your company make the most of investing in Scotland.

Investment in Scotland’s oil and gas industry